Gamification design using tourist-generated pictures to enhance visitor engagement at intercity tourist sites

Rapeepan Pitakaso, Surajet Khonjun, Natthapong Nanthasamroeng, Chawis Boonmee, Chutchai Kaewta, Prem Enkvetchakul, Sarayut Gonwirat, Peerawat Chokanat, Ganokgarn Jirasirilerd and Thanatkij Srichok ()
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Rapeepan Pitakaso: Ubon Ratchathani University
Surajet Khonjun: Ubon Ratchathani University
Natthapong Nanthasamroeng: Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University
Chawis Boonmee: Chiang Mai University
Chutchai Kaewta: Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University
Prem Enkvetchakul: Buriram University
Sarayut Gonwirat: Kalasin University
Peerawat Chokanat: Ubon Ratchathani University
Ganokgarn Jirasirilerd: Sisaket Rajabhat University
Thanatkij Srichok: Ubon Ratchathani University

Annals of Operations Research, 2025, vol. 350, issue 3, No 8, 1109-1141

Abstract: Abstract This study explores the potential of leveraging tourist-generated images to enhance engagement and loyalty at intercity tourist sites through a photo challenge game. With over 1.72 trillion photos shared annually on social media, these visuals offer a valuable resource for motivating participation. Unlike traditional games that focus on individual attractions, our approach targets intercity destinations to foster a deeper connection and sense of loyalty. The research methodology involved meticulous preparation of diverse and relevant datasets comprising tourist-generated images. These images were categorized and classified using advanced techniques such as GAN and geometric augmentation, employing an ensemble of models including EfficientNetV2B1, EfficientNetV2B0, and MobileNetV2. Additionally, a modified Siamese network compared tourist-submitted photos with standard photos from the warehouse, displaying the ranking publicly to boost engagement. The computational analysis demonstrated outstanding performance, with a classification accuracy exceeding 97.08% and a robust scoring system accuracy of 93.10%. User feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with a high SUS score of 96.09%. By capitalizing on the vast quantity of tourist-generated images, our photo challenge game successfully enhances engagement and loyalty at intercity tourist sites. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of combining advanced image processing techniques with gamification elements to create a memorable visitor experience and attract a broader audience of mature tourists.

Keywords: Gamification; AMIS; Tourist loyalty; Tourist engagement; Deep learning (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s10479-023-05590-1

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